For nearly two decades, the tournament has provided scholarships to underprivileged students across the country, leaving a profound impact on the lives of thousands.

Since its inception, the tournament has mobilized more than $880,000 in donations, providing scholarships and funding the renovation of educational institutions in 40 provinces and cities across Vietnam. Speaking about this year’s efforts, Le Trong Minh, editor-in-chief of VIR, said: “With 243 golfers participating this season, we estimate we have raised more than $92,000 to continue our mission of supporting students in need.”

According to Minh, the Swing for the Kids initiative has become a lifeline for many students from difficult backgrounds, helping them pursue their higher education dreams. Many past recipients of these scholarships have graduated, established careers, and are now making significant contributions to society.

$92,000 was raised to empower underprivileged students in Vietnam. Photo: Chi Cuong

For students like Chao Lo May of Lao Cai, the scholarship is more than financial aid: it symbolizes the responsibility to excel.

“It’s not just about gratitude, it’s about responsibility. This scholarship motivates me to study harder and give back to those who have helped me along my journey,” said May, who has received the scholarship for three consecutive years.

She used the scholarship to cover tuition, rent and even an English class, which she hopes will give her an edge after graduation.

Likewise, Vu Minh Phuc, a fourth-year student at the Academy of Politics and Development, also reflected on the importance of this scholarship. His family’s financial situation is dire, with his father working as a farmer and his mother suffering from heart disease.

“This scholarship means a lot to my family. It eases the financial burden, allowing me to pay tuition fees and support my younger brother, who has just started college,” Phuc said.

This year’s tournament also extended its reach to students affected by Typhoon Yagi, which recently hit northern Vietnam. Six students received emergency financial assistance of $400 each to help them recover from the aftermath of the disaster.

One of the recipients, Do Thi Hue, a student at the University of Transportation and Communications, spoke about the losses suffered by her family.

“The typhoon destroyed five acres of our farmland and washed away our plants. My parents tried to hold back tears and encouraged me to continue my studies, but it was devastating. This support allows me to stay in school and pay my tuition fees.” Hue said.

Another beneficiary, Nguyen Thi Hai Hau, a second-year student at the same university, spoke of her struggles after her family lost a fish pond and 60 ornamental kumquats.

“My brother and I both need money to pay our tuition fees. As soon as I receive the scholarship, I will return to Hung Yen to pay my brother’s tuition fees first. He is waiting for me looking forward to it,” Hau said.

Nguyen Huong Tra My of the Academy of Politics and Development also expressed gratitude after surviving the landslide that buried his family’s home in Yen Bai province.

“My father heard the sound of falling stones that night and told us to run. Barefoot and half asleep, I escaped with my parents just before our house was engulfed,” My said. “We lost everything, but today’s scholarship gives me hope to continue my studies.”

At the gala, the organizing committee awarded six full scholarships worth $400 each to outstanding students from the Academy of Policy and Development and the University of Transportation and Communications. Additionally, the committee provided $800 to the Vietnam Scholarship Fund.

The organizing committee provided $8,000 to the Vietnam Scholarship Fund. Photo: Chi Cuong

Like the 17^th Following the conclusion of the Swing for the Kids charity golf tournament season, the initiative provides a beacon of hope, enabling students from disadvantaged backgrounds to continue their education, overcome challenges and shape a better future.

Full scholarship holders for 2024:

1. Mai Van Yen – Accounting, 3^rd year, Academy of Politics and Development

2. Vu Minh Phuc – International Economy, 3^rd year, Academy of Politics and Development

3. Chao Lo May – Auditing and accounting, 3^rd year, Academy of Politics and Development

4. Ho Thi Binh – Applied mathematics, 3^rd year, University of Transport and Communications

5. Bui Thi Xuan Mai – Applied Mathematics, 2^sd year, University of Transport and Communications

6. Nguyen Huong Giang – English language, 1^st year, University of Transport and Communications

Emergency assistance for students affected by Typhoon Yagi:

1. Nguyen Huong Tra My – Academy of Politics and Development

2. Nguyen Bich Ngoc – International Economics, Academy of Politics and Development

3. Vu Tran Ngoc Ha – Economics, Academy of Politics and Development

4. Nguyen Quynh Hoa – Digital Economy, Academy of Policy and Development

5. Do Thi Hue – Applied Mathematics, University of Transportation and Communications

6. Nguyen Thi Hai Hau – Applied Mathematics, University of Transportation and Communications

Hundreds gather at 2024 Swing for the Kids charity golf tournament In its 17th year, the Swing for the Kids 2024 charity golf tournament attracted hundreds of golfers, who competed and supported underprivileged students.

The best golfers rewarded at Swing for the Kids 2024 The 2024 Swing for the Kids charity golf tournament raised nearly $100,000 from donors and 243 golfers.

Swing for the Kids charity golf tournament begins The 17th edition of the Swing for the Kids charity golf tournament began on the morning of October 12, with the participation of nearly 300 golfers.